Article by: Molly Helfend
It is easy to cite the amoral federal overreach and burdensome regulations that are occurring in the government right now. Many of us are transfixed by the political gargoyles and clickbait tactics being used to persuade, or almost silence, what our country truly wants or needs. The truth is that the cynic Trump administration is promoting the opposite of working together with positivity. With a sensationalist president talking with egotism and profane hyperbole, it's hard to not eschew from watching the news or trying to improve our communities. I completely understand why we are all afraid or angry right now. However, we all have the power to influence positive change, big or small. Love and hope still do exist and are very real.
As a follow up of my last article, “this is a brief overview to familiarize readers with environmental actions that are surrounding our government right now. This focuses on regulations, policies and events that have officially been proposed, passed and occurred. Every couple of months, I will update House of Citrine readers with information surrounding the government and the environment.”
Most importantly, I will actually provide real, accessible ways you can get involved and help our earth. Feel free to comment and share your ideas on more ways we can all help! Remember, politicians are ELECTED leaders and will follow what the public truly pushes for. Do not give up hope and keep praying and promoting peace, love and unity.
If you have not read my first article, here is another reference to update yourself on some of environmental rules that have been rolled back in Trump’s first 100 days. Also, be sure to check out your personal carbon footprint at carbotax.org and check out how you can get involved in carbon pricing at theclimatesolution.com.
WHAT: Trump appointed unqualified campaign workers instead of farm experts as staffers at the Department of Agriculture.
When: September 21
Why does this matter: Trump appointed a long-haul truck driver, country club cabana attendant and owner of a scented candle company that have no agriculture or policy experience to work in posts at the USDA. Some have even looked into the situation and claim that these hires do not even possess the required credentials to even hold a government salary level job. Most importantly, “an inexperienced staff can lead to mistakes and sidetrack a president’s agenda,” so it is obvious that Trump has appointed campaign staffers out of inappropriate loyalty (Hopkinson, 2017).
What can you do: Support your local community food system by buying local. Eat Local Grown is a great resource to learn more about the farms, farmers markets, restaurants, and grocery/co-ops around your area. Improve the agriculture system on a smaller community level.
WHAT: Hurricane Maria makes landfall in Puerto Rico.
When: September 20
Why does this matter: This category 4 hurricane completely destroyed the island and some are calling the damage apocalyptic. “The storm forced at least 15,000 people into shelters, destroyed structural and housing infrastructure, shut down electricity, disrupted the distribution of gasoline and medicine and limited food and water supplies” (Killelea, 2017). The White House was been way too slow to respond and efforts for a speedy recovery are looking bleak. This could not have come at a worse time, as Puerto Rico is in the throes of an economic crisis. Puerto Ricans are American citizens and we need to help, as they are on the brink of a full blown humanitarian crisis. Trump has claimed he will visit Puerto Rico and assess the damage in early October.
What can you do: Read more about charities on Charity Navigator and GuideStar to learn about individual charities and groups and learn how they will spend your donations. Right now, hold off on material donations and focus on donating to established charities that can properly provide relief. Check out donations to Unidos, by the Hispanic Federation, Unidos por Puerto Rico, All Hands Volunteers, Direct Relief and Center for Disaster Philanthropy. You can also donate to Donate to the American Red Cross via text by sending a text message saying "REDCROSS" to the number 90999.
WHAT: After Trump failed to offer condolences following Mexico’s earthquake and hurricane, Mexico rescinded their offer of aid to the United States.
When: September 12
Why does this matter: Last month, Mexico offered food, generators and medical aid to Texas post Harvey and Trump never responded to the offer. However, Texas governor Greg Abbott was very grateful and interested in accepting aid. Trump simply ignored Mexico’s generosity and failed to acknowledge the devastation they are going through as well. It is important to realize that “Mexico is a major U.S. trading partner and has for decades been a steadfast ally” and right now “negotiators from the U.S., Mexico and Canada are locked in a tense renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement, the landmark trade deal Trump has threatened to scrap if he does’t win major concessions from Mexico” (Linthicum, 2017). Mexico has stated that they need to redirect their funds and aid to their own citizens following the natural disaster destruction.
What can you do: Here is a list of charities you can donate to to help Mexico and here is a list of charities you can donate to to help Texas.
WHAT: The Senate Appropriations Committee passed a spending bill, approving $10 million to fund the United Nations’ climate change group that oversees the Paris Climate Agreement.
When: September 8
Why does this matter: Despite Trump’s decision to leave the Paris accord, our government still seems to mean business when it comes to environmental justice. The committee “approved a $51 billion spending bill for the State Department and foreign operations, which included an amendment to continue funding the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change as well as the scientific body the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change” (Volcovici, 2017). This shows the US is actually serious about fighting climate change and is willing to work together with other nations, despite the embarrassments of our president.
What can you do: This is a great step for the US. Keep the momentum going and volunteer with climate justice advocacy groups such as Climate Justice Alliance or WEDO.
WHAT: Hurricane Irma makes landfall in the Caribbean, putting Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Florida at risk.
When: September 5
Why does this matter: With surges of 185 mph winds, Irma is one of the strongest recorded hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm made second landfall in Florida on September 10. This hurricane season has been one of the most devastating on record, wiping out entire islands, flooding cities and displacing thousands of people. Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and the Florida Keys were especially battered by the storms, with “six million customers in Florida, or about two-thirds of the state, [having] power outages” (Rivera and Alvarez, 2017). Luckily, there was less flooding and intense rains than expected in rest of Florida.
What can you do: Donate to the proper organizations for hurricane relief.
WHAT: Trump chose Oklahoma Congressman and “human induced climate change” denier Jim Bridenstine to head NASA.
When: September 4
Why does this matter: Although he first needs to be confirmed by the Senate, already two senators from Florida’s Space Coast have publicly opposed this choice. Bridenstine is a conservative Republican official who is a “a veteran Navy combat pilot who served during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and who currently serves in the Oklahoma Air National Guard,” however, does not believe humans are involved in rising global temperatures (Greenfieldboyce, 2017). This is very alarming to scientists, as NASA conducts large amounts of global climate science research. He also does not believe that the US has a large enough carbon footprint to make an impact on the earth, when in fact, the US is one of the largest polluting countries on earth.
What can you do: Push for NASA to continue their science research. Write letters and keep yourself involved in their activities. Partnered with NASA, iSeeChange is a community weather and climate journal for participants nationwide that uniquely combine citizen observations (photos and text) with, cutting-edge weather and satellite data.
WHAT: The EPA has not visited 13 of the 41 Superfund sites in Texas since the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.
When: September 3
Why does this matter: The Associated Press has recently reported that these Superfund sites were severely flooded, with heavy concentrations of hazardous waste flowing and running the risk of contaminating the entire cities and towns. “Long a center of the nation’s petrochemical industry, the Houston metro area has more than a dozen Superfund sites, designated by the Environmental Protection Agency as being among America’s most intensely contaminated places” and with the expensive hurricane damage, waters should not have additional pollutants from dangerous sediment (Dearen and Biesecker, 2017).The EPA claimed that the report was misleading, however, they never actually disputed the claims.
What can you do: Contact the EPA and report the need for better Superfund testing. Check out this great list of companies you can personally contact to help clean up hazardous and toxic waste.
WHAT: Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the central coast of Texas near Corpus Christi.
When: August 25
Why does this matter: With wind speeds of nearly 130 mph, this Category 4 hurricane is the first major hurricane to hit the United States in nearly 12 years. The damage from Harvey was absolutely devastating, causing “catastrophic flooding from the storm surge and torrential rains…[as well as] downed walls and power lines, roofless businesses and unanchored mobile homes, [with] electricity…unavailable for weeks” in Houston and nearby towns and cities (Fernandez and Blinder, 2017). Tens of thousands of residents have lost their homes, seeking refuge in shelters, with upwards of 70 casualties as well. This is one of the worst natural disasters to hit the United States since Hurricane Katrina, Sandy or Irene.
What can you do: Check out this great article by Rolling Stone about how to get involved.
WHAT: The Trump Administration dissolved the National Climate Assessment panel.
When: August 21
Why does this matter: This 15 person federal advisory committee helped both public and private-sector officials examine scientific climate data and properly utilize it in long term policy. Most importantly, this group has been writing the 2018 Climate Science Special Report, which “was produced by scientists from 13 different federal agencies and estimates that human activities were responsible for an increase in global temperatures of 1.1 to 1.3 degrees Fahrenheit from 1951 to 2010” (Eilperin, 2017). Many state and local governments have been pushing for federal guidance on how to approach climate change issues, such as sea level rise and shifts in economic feasibility, in their cities and towns.
What can you do: In relation to the economic burdens of climate change, this is a great site to look up mutual funds, see their exposure to various fossil fuel companies and carbon footprint your own funds: fossilfreefunds.org.
WHAT: Trump revoked Obama’s Federal Flood Risk Management standard, a coastal flood protection rule.
When: August 16
Why does this matter: With Republican congressman from Florida condemning the decision, Trump “rescinded a rule that requires federal, state and local agencies to account for rising sea levels caused by climate change and to construct buildings, highways and other infrastructure to withstand flooding” (D’Angelo, 2017). This rule reduced the risk and cost of flood disasters, which coastal states like Florida, are seeing increasing need for. Trump keeps boasting about his plans to improve the economic status of the US, however, this move will cost taxpayers billions of dollars in infrastructure and relocation fees.
What can you do: Be an active part of the community, go to your local and state governments and push for zoning ordinances and building code standards.
WHAT: The Natural Resources Conservation Service will now censor the use of the words “climate change” to use the phrase “weather extremes” instead.
When: August 8
Why does this matter: The NRCS is a branch of the USDA that oversees farmers’ land conservation. In a series of emails, the Trump administration is using prerogative language to gradually percolate the government from acknowledging the existence of climate change. Staff are asked to replace such phrases as “‘climate change adaption’… [with] ‘resilience to weather extremes’…and the the term ‘reduce greenhouse gases’ [is] blacklisted in favor of ‘build soil organic matter, increase nutrient use efficiency.’ Meanwhile, ‘sequester carbon’ is ruled out and replaced by ‘build soil organic matter’ (Milman, 2017).
What can you do: Keep using the proper language and make it the norm. Start conversations and be active in educating those around you. Here is a link to help properly converse with climate skeptics. If you have the means, consider donating to environmental and climate organizations such as Earth Justice, the Sierra Club, the Climate Science Legal Defense Fund, or NextGen Climate Action.
WHAT: The US formally notified the United Nations that it will withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement.
When: August 4
Why does this matter: Even though the administration says they are “open to negotiation” and do intend of participating in the United Nations climate negotiations in November, which aim to hash out details of the Paris agreement, the administration continues to embarrass our country. According to the AP-NORC poll, “sixty-four percent of Americans disapprove and just 34 percent approve of how Trump is handling the issue of climate change” (Biesecker and Swanson, 2017). Luckily under the terms of the agreement, the US cannot officially withdraw until after the next presidential election.
What can you do: Vote in 2020 election. Make sure to vote for politicians you truly believe will make positive change for our country.
WHAT: A federal court blocked the EPA’s effort to suspend an Obama-era methane restriction rule.
When: July 3
Why does this matter: Methane is one of the most potent and toxic greenhouse gases in the world, making its regulation extremely vital. This legal blow will make sure the EPA continues to comply with the existing regulatory rule to limit methane emissions and smog-forming pollutants emitted by new and existing oil and gas wells. The Trump administration has continuously been working to roll back multiple environmental and public health sanctions, signaling their interest in economic prosperity over any other. The administration has been working to “undo regulations it inherited, including a rule on grizzly bear protection,…another on chemical spills,…[ also challenging] a May E.P.A. decision to suspend for 90 days a rule aimed at cutting methane emissions from landfills…[and have tried suspending] a Food and Drug Administration rule requiring restaurants to list the calories in the food they sell and a Labor Department regulation mandating that financial advisers put consumers’ best interests ahead of their own (Friedman, 2017).
What can you do: This is a positive step in methane regulation. Try to decrease your fossil fuel production through public transportation, carpool, biking or walking as much as possible. Also, check out car sharing options. Eat less beef and palm oil, which are huge contributors to deforestation. Forests naturally absorb methane. Decrease your waste production by buying bulk, whole foods and produce and investing in sustainable food storage such as Bees Wrap, Stasher Bag, Mason Jars and reusable water bottles.
WHAT: Scott Pruitt announced he is launching an initiative to critique climate science at the EPA.
When: June 30
Why does this matter: This government program would challenge climate science using “back and forth” military style tactics, attacking systematic and organized data that currently exists. This is also a very intense tactic that some people may not respond positively to, as “climate scientists express concern that the "red team, blue team" concept could politicize scientific research and disproportionately elevate the views of a relatively small number of experts who disagree with mainstream scientists (Waldman, 2017). Although Scott Pruitt has admitted to the existence of climate change and human’s role in this, he is still skeptical that greenhouse gases are the primary cause.
What can you do: “Get involved with peaceful protest marches in your area. They are mostly spread by word of mouth or social media, but it is helpful to check your local newspapers and bulletin boards” (Helfend, 2017). If not, start one yourself with your friends! Start a club on your school campus and get your school involved.
WHAT: The Energy Department closed down the Office of International Climate and Technology, which works with other countries to develop clean energy technology and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
When: June 15
Why does this matter: Without this office, working directly with other nations on issues regarding clean energy will be much harder. It “played a lead role preparing for the annual Clean Energy Ministerial…[and helped] India develop its own lighting efficiency standards and start a program to purchase LED lamps in bulk for consumers” (Plumer, 2017). Environmental cooperation with the US government is becoming increasingly more difficult and other countries are starting to become fed up, leading to hostile diplomacy.
What can you do: Invest in renewables. Install solar panels, switch to biofuel or if you have the means, invest in companies like Tesla that are working towards zero emissions. “Save on gas with an electric, hybrid, or super fuel-efficient car. (Check out this electric car calculator from the Union of Concerned Scientists, which helps you take into account the electricity source where you live).” Work towards energy efficiency in your home through this checklist. Speaking of technology, this is actually a fantastic tool in the battle for climate justice. There are many ways technology is actually finding solutions and bringing so many people together.
WHAT: A federal judge declared that the environmental survey done on the Dakota Access Pipeline was not adequate.
When: June 14
Why does this matter: This is a huge win for pipeline activists, as it proves that the government did not adequately consider the directly negative impacts of an imminent oil spill and how to pipeline itself would disrupt sacred lands. “The judge said the army must redo its environmental analysis in certain sections and he would consider later whether the pipeline must halt operations in the meantime” (Associated Press, 2017). This gives activists time and proper leverage to keep fighting for the environmental justice of the land.
What can you do: “‘Divestment from big banks that have financial stakes is often a difficult, but an important step that can be taken to essentially show where you want your money to go. Taking your money out of banks and putting it into credit unions has been an essential part of the movement to separate banks from offshore drilling. Read more here.' (Malik). Stop using Bank of America, HSBC, UBS, Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase” (Helfend, 2017).
WHAT: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration canceled proposed limits on the number of endangered whales, dolphins and sea turtles trapped in sword-fishing nets on the West Coast.
When: June 12
Why does this matter: This is simply immoral. This is one of the first legislations that would target protections for threatened animal species by the Trump Administration. The NOAA claims that the fishing industry has implemented measures to reduce marine injuries and deaths in recent years and that the costs of the protections outweigh the benefits. However, they are only looking at the economic and human side of this perspective. “Endangered fin, humpback, and sperm whales; short-finned pilot whales and common bottlenose dolphins; as well as endangered leatherback sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, olive ridley sea turtles and green sea turtles” are all on the list of animals directly affected by the fishing industry and need proper protection in order to survive” (Weikel, 2017).
What can you do: “‘Start with a google search on: “how to choose ethical seafood”. The first three links that show up are: seafoodwatch.org, NRDC.org, and goodfishguide.org. Educating yourself is without a doubt the most important first step anyone can take when it comes to environmental health’ (Malik). Watch what you put in your shopping cart and try to avoid buying unsustainable fish, or opt for none at all” (Helfend, 2017). Here is another great link with Greenpeace. Donate to organizations that work together to protect marine life like MarineBio.
WHAT: Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke suggested shrinking Bears Ears National Monument
When: June 12
Why does this matter: This monument in southeastern Utah is a stunning 1.3-million-acre canyon red rock conservation area that is home to around 100,000 archaeological sites. “The Bears Ears designation was supported by environmentalists and the leaders of many native tribes in the region, including the Navajo Nation, but was opposed by Utah’s governor [and] the state’s congressional delegation,” proving this land also has historical and spiritual significance (Turkewitz and Davenport, 2017). Under The Antiquities Act, which gives presidents the authority to protect designated areas as public monuments, no president has ever eliminated or reduced the size of a monument, so this would be a historic move.
What can you do: Visit and donate to your park system. “Support your community parks and public lands by attending consistently and treating them with respect. Although this may seem counterintuitive for environmental reasons, the more you visit parks and public lands, the more money is poured in. The government cannot avoid seeing this increase in tourism and support” (Helfend, 2017).
WHAT: Hawaii becomes the first state to enact a legislative law that documents rising sea levels and implements parts of the Paris Climate Agreement.
When: June 8
Why does this matter: The state of Hawaii continues to put environmental stewardship as a priority. Tropical islands “are seeing the impacts of climate change first-hand…[as] tides are getting higher, biodiversity is shrinking, coral is bleaching and coastlines are eroding” (Associated Press, 2017). In addition, as climate changes, natural disasters will devastate the islands as time goes on. Hawaii is setting strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and we must do the same in order to preserve not only the islands, but also the American landscape itself.
What can you do: I think also identifying that climate change needs to be fought with methods beyond just science is important. Through art like photography we can leverage people to understand the ramifications of losing such beautiful lands such as Hawaii. Here is a great article about utilizing art for climate justice.
Here are some great links to read up about other creative solutions to environmental justice issues:
https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/24/opinion/can-poets-save-the-parks.html?_r=0
WHAT: The Department of the Interior is going to review protection of the rare sage grouse.
When: June 8
Why does this matter: Nearly two years ago, the Obama administration helped this rare western bird receive proper collaborative conservation and protection. Both “Republican and Democratic governors expressed support…[as did] many ranchers and environmental groups…[and] while not everyone declared the plan perfect, it went a long way toward easing years of tension over a divisive issue that combined politics, energy development, land use, wildlife conservation and climate change (Yardly, 2017). If the new administration decides to withdraw protection, it would thwart the sage grouses’ potential of security under the Endangered Species Act. The sage grouse is a unique animal that is critically vital to the western US landscape, as protecting these rare birds helps other wildlife that share their habitat, including elk, pronghorn and songbirds.
What can you do: To help protect the sage grouse yourself, remove invasive plants to protect their habitat, mark fences, prevent wildfires, establish conservation easements so private landowners can be reimbursed for permanently protecting land from development and push for no-drill buffer zones to prevent drilling on grouse habitat.
WHAT: Washington, California and New York formed the United States Climate Alliance, an alliance that states will use as a way to coordinate with climate change issues.
When: June 1
Why does this matter: These three states represent a fifth of the US economy and also produced 11 percent of U.S. emissions in 2014, according to the Energy Information Administration. This coalition of leaders are influencing many other states and groups of people to join to take action and pledge to meet the US’ greenhouse gas emission target including 80 mayors “including Los Angeles, Atlanta and Salt Lake City…along with Pittsburgh,” three governors, more than 100 businesses and even “eighty-two presidents and chancellors of universities including Emory & Henry College, Brandeis and Wesleyan are also participating” (Tabuchi and Fountain, 2017). Even Former New York City mayor and billionaire, Michael Bloomberg, pledged $15 million to support operations and foot the US for pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement. This proves that the majority of the US wants to positively contribute and work together against climate change, no matter what the negative and transgressive agenda of the government has. Liberal or conservative, people are banding together to acknowledge that climate change is real and that this is an important crisis that must be taken seriously.
What can you do: Make sure your local government gets involved. Write letters, make calls, schedule appointments and let your representatives know that this matter is important to you. Start implementing environmental standards in your own town such as implementing recycling or composting bins or reducing plastic bags. Plan town activity days around environmental justice such as trash clean up, no cars for a day, or farmers markets. Get creative! Check out this site to familiarize yourself and get your city involved.
WHAT: Trump announced that the US will withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord
When: June 1
Why does this matter: This move is more than irresponsible, it is frankly embarrassing to the United States, as we would account for 21% of the total emissions reduced by the accord through 2030. Instead, we are prioritizing the hope of false economic precedences over the health of the global environment. Trump claims that the accord stymies economic growth, however, it actually opens doors to the possibility for jobs within the green energy field. Instead we are “weakening efforts to combat global warming and embracing isolationist voices in [the] White House who argued that the agreement was a pernicious threat to the economy and American sovereignty” (Shear, 2017). Frankly, this move shocked the world, eliciting an uproar of opposition from corporate, activist and nation leaders across the world, such as Elon Musk, who in response, quit Trump’s advisory council. In addition, Al Gore stated that this move is a “reckless and indefensible action…as it undermines America’s standing in the world and threatens to damage humanity’s ability to solve the climate crisis in time.” The agreement is nothing more than a positive step forward for the world to battle climate change as one community, instead, Trump is isolating the United States from our allies. He even claims that he wants to renegotiate the terms of the Paris deal, however, Germany, France and Italy have very clearly stated that contours of the agreement cannot be changed and should be taken very seriously for the future vitality of our planet. To make matters more startling, Trump’s decision actually negates what a majority of American’s feel towards the agreement. According to Yale Climate Change Communication, 69% of all voters support the US’ involvement in the Paris Climate Agreement and want Trump to remain within the accord. Ironically, “Trump’s decision to pull out of the Paris climate agreement could accelerate damage to his family’s real estate empire in the coming decades, especially his properties that lie just feet from the encroaching sea in low-lying South Florida,” so you are allowed to have a chuckle of over that feat (Dearen and Sanz, 2017).
What can you do: which will take about four years to complete, leaving a final decision up to American voters in the 2020 election.
WHAT: The Dakota Access pipeline had its first official leak.
When: May 15
Why does this matter: Before officially operational, the pipeline already spilled 84 gallons of crude oil at a South Dakota station. Mass protests from people across the globe, especially from outraged indigenous groups, have been warning about the inevitable leak and threats to the environment. This oil not only costs millions of dollars to clean, it disrupts the stability and integrity of the sacred land. At the end of the four year term, the Obama Administration denied a key permit to the project, however, Trump is directly connected to the company involved and has expedited this hazardous pipeline’s construction. Read more here.
What can you do: “‘Divestment from big banks that have financial stakes is often a difficult, but an important step that can be taken to essentially show where you want your money to go. Taking your money out of banks and putting it into credit unions has been an essential part of the movement to separate banks from offshore drilling. Read more here.' (Malik). Stop using Bank of America, HSBC, UBS, Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase” (Helfend, 2017).
WHAT: The EPA allowed mining company, Pebble Limited Partnership, to pursue federal permits to create a massive gold and copper mine at Bristol Bay, the headwaters of one of Alaska’s pristine salmon fisheries.
When: May 12
Why does this matter: With large copper and gold deposits in southwest Alaska, mining companies have been pressuring the government to overturn environmental regulations for years. However, mining will not only pollute the surrounding water and fish populations, it will also adversely affect the health and economy of the indigenous and Alaskan Natives in the region. The Trump administration is giving “a go-ahead to industry to challenge EPA actions or to seek permits about which they previously might have been uncertain” (Bohrer, 2017).
What can you do: Buy and support sustainable brands such as Brilliant Earth for your jewelry needs. Read up more about the sustainable process of bioleaching here.
WHAT: Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, signed the Fairbanks Declaration, an international declaration that acknowledges the existence and threat of climate change towards the Arctic region.
When: May 11
Why does this matter: This huge step is in direct opposition with the Trump Administration’s trivial and skeptical views of climate change. It indicates the urgent and critical need to globally work together to stop climate justice issues. This declaration was signed at a meeting with the Arctic Council, “a forum made up of indigenous groups and eight countries with territory bordering the Arctic Circle” (Greenwood, 2017).
What can you do: Greenpeace lists some great ways you can get involved with arctic drilling campaign issues.
WHAT: A methane emissions repeal measure failed to pass the Senate.
When: May 10
Why does this matter: The new rule would have given energy corporations amnesty for their pollution from methane emissions on federal land. Keeping the Obama administration’s old rule, which “requires oil and gas companies to plug accidental leaks of methane…and scale back the practice of intentionally venting or burning gas as they extract more profitable crude oil” is vital in keeping oil and gas companies in check with environmental hazards (Dlouhy, 2017). Regulating methane is a very important step towards battling climate change, as the Trump administration has clearly prioritized fossil fuel interests over environmental protection. Fossil fuel production and intensive livestock farming are responsible for 60% of all human methane emissions with landfills and waste contributing 16%, biomass burning contributing 11%, rice agriculture 9%, and biofuels 4%.
What can you do: This is a positive step in methane regulation. Try to decrease your fossil fuel production through public transportation, carpool, biking or walking as much as possible. Also, check out car sharing options. Eat less beef and palm oil, which are huge contributors to deforestation. Forests naturally absorb methane. Decrease your waste production by buying bulk, whole foods and produce and investing in sustainable food storage such as Bees Wrap, Stasher Bag, Mason Jars and reusable water bottles.
WHAT: The EPA dismissed half of its scientific advisers on the major review board.
When: May 7
Why does this matter: An unexpected red flag, this move signals a shift from academic to business and industry minded individuals running the EPA. The EPA provides guidance on whether research has sufficient rigor and integrity. Scott Pruitt is replacing scientists with the very industry critics that are being scrutinized by the EPA for their pollution efforts. This allows them to control all aspects of their carbon footprint, not caring about its effects on human health and the environment. Trump has even called for the EPA to have a “40 percent reduction for its main scientific branch” and rolling “back major Obama-era regulations on climate change and clean water protection” (Davenport, 2017).
What can you do: “Educate yourself with science-based literature or documentaries. Try to be careful when reading on the internet, as much of the information can be slanted to either side. Taking a science course at your local college or online is another great way to get more informed” (Helfend, 2017).
WHAT: The US Department of Agriculture is easing school lunch regulations implemented by the Obama Administration.
When: May 1
Why does this matter: Although not perfect, the 2010 law, implemented by Michelle Obama, required students to be offered “fruits and vegetables every day, have whole grain-rich foods, fat-free or low-fat milk, and have meals with reduced sugars and sodium” (Khan and Ebbs, 2017). Agriculture secretary, Scott Perdue, decided to halt sodium and whole-grain requirements, as well as, allow 1 percent fat flavored milk back into the National School Lunch Program. Many more conservative groups have complained and lobbied about restrictive nutritional lunch programs and the governments need to intervene, however, obesity is a large epidemic in America. With food and agriculture corporations continuously ignoring nutritional health standards, Michelle Obama’s actions were a step in the right direction to introducing children to a whole food, healthy diet.
What can you do: Pack your own lunches for your children. Teach about nutrition and real whole foods directly from the home. What the Health Meal Planners can help with affordable meal planning and kid friendly recipes. Also consider time saving meal box subscriptions such as Urthbox, One Potato or HelloFresh.
Molly Helfend is part of the HOC team and is a writer, ethnobotanist, herbalist and environmental activist. She graduated from University of Vermont in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Holistic Health and recently from University of Kent in 2018 in Canterbury, England with a Masters of Science Degree in Ethnobotany. She has worked for Urban Moonshine, Greenpeace and received her herbalism training with Spoonful Herbals. Her goal is to travel the world, researching plant-human interconnected relationships while continuing to educate about the transformational energy of life. Molly resides in Raglan, New Zealand, working as an herbalist at the Herbal Dispensary.